Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 1 February 2012
164 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of whole-time equivalent social workers in employment at the end of 2010 and 2011; if she intends to reach the target number of social workers recommended in the Ryan report at the end of 2012; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5886/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe HSE compiles a monthly census of employment in the public health and social care sector. The latest data available is in respect of December 2011. This shows that the total number of social workers employed in the HSE and in directly funded agencies at that time was 2,442 whole time equivalents (WTEs). The equivalent figure at the end of 2010 was 2,432 WTEs and at the end of 2009 was 2189 WTEs. This is an increase of 253 WTEs since the end of 2009.
The policy goal, in line with the Implementation Plan, published in 2009 in response to the Report of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse (Ryan Report), is to achieve an overall increase of 270 social workers. In this context, it should be noted that the HSE made provision for the recruitment of an additional 62 social workers in 2011, to build on the recruitment of over 200 additional social workers in 2010. However, I understand from the HSE that not all of the 2011 cohort of additional staff are reflected in the employment census as yet owing to the time lag between candidates being offered positions, taking up duty and appearing in the employment census returns.
165 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she has an estimate of the number of social workers intending to take early retirement in February; if there is a plan to replace these workers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5887/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has sought the information requested by the Deputy from the HSE and I will provide the Deputy with the information when it becomes available.
